The Association of Writers and Illustrators for Children (AWIC), a voluntary organization, works towards the promotion and development of literature for children in India. It represents writers, illustrators, librarians, editors and publishers interested in children’s literature. Founded by the late Mr. K. Shankar Pillai in 1981, AWIC has moved from strength to strength making its presence felt in the international field for quality children’s literature. Since 1990, it has represented the Indian Section of IBBY.

IBBY India is very active in book publishing. In addition to the publication of stories, poems, plays and biographies by its members, AWIC has contributed to literacy projects, school library projects and translations. It runs an exclusive children’s bookshop and conducts regular workshops for members helping them hone their skills.

In 1991, the AWIC Children’s Library Project received the IBBY-Asahi Reading Promotion Award

IBBY India hosted the 26th IBBY Congress in New Delhi, September 1998 under the theme: Peace Through Children’s Books.

AWIC/Indian BBY was the sponsor of the 2005 International Children’s Book Day. The message and the poster with the theme Books Are My Magic Eyes was be presented at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair, April 2005. more